I am about to head to local radio station WUGA to share my weekend round-up, but you, loyal Flagpole.com readers, get to see my picks for the week here, first! Let's see, in addition to the shows highlighted this week in our features section (Son Volt, Washed Out, Mass Solo Revolt), I will probably chat up these fine events:

Classic Bastards: Reckless, humorous local metal band with a brand new record! Check out our review here, and then go give these dudes high fives at the 'Donia. (Caledonia Lounge, Thursday 19)

Lera Lynn: I can't get enough of this local songwriter's smoldering vocals, whether she is playing with her band Birds+Wire or going solo. This will be a particularly special performance as Lera Lynn will be accompanied by Karolyn Troupe (Venice Is Sinking) on viola and Eunice Kang on cello. The delicate string arrangements coupled with Lera Lynn's sultry croon should be beautiful, and quite a departure from the more rock-heavy direction her band has been headed. Birds+Wire plays next at New Earth Music Hall on Nov. 27. Check out this episode of Soundies featuring Lera Lynn on acoustic guitar. So stunning! (Flicker Theatre, Thursday 19)

Gift Horse: This isn't the first time Gift Horse has gotten a mention in this column, but I am excited as the release date for the band's new release inches closer. If you are into local act Dead Confederate, you'll find some common ground here, with reverb-drenched guitars that seem to descend from outer space and envelope the room. The vocals are much more atmospheric than DC, though, offering a deeper, darker undertone. These guys have grown by leaps and bounds over the past year, and their live show is super tight and impressive. Also on the bill, the unpredictable but always entertaining psych-rock of Kuroma. (40 Watt Club, Saturday 21)

Mean Mic Tuesday: Tommy Valentine has been pumping up the local hip-hop scene with this new series at New Earth Music Hall. On Tuesday, Nov. 24, Tommy and host Elite Tha Showstoppa will present a special "Thanksgiving Edition" featuring your favorite "hometown heroes." So far Brian Walker, Son1 and Profound Breadth are confirmed. But what I am most looking forward to is the Beat Battle Royale. There aren't enough well publicized rap battles in Athens—this should be a real treat. I just love the competitive yet playful energy that fuels these events, the pride, the speed and the wit. If only battle of the bands were this electrifying and entertaining. Valentine says he is still accepting submissions from artists who want to perform at this show or participate as a battler. Send him a note at tommy@meanmic.com if you want in. Oh, and there is no cover if you bring  a canned good donation—there's your Thanksgiving angle. (New Earth Music Hall, Tuesday 24)

Michelle Gilzenrat

music@flagpole.com